I live in a Canadian town where hundreds of Hallmark movies are filmed. From roaming peacocks to fake snow, here's what it's like.

Simone PagetJan 15, 2024, 14:43 IST

Victoria is a quaint town on the West Coast of Canada. Simone Paget

I live in picturesque Victoria, British Columbia, on the West Coast of Canada.
My hometown serves as the filming location for hundreds of Hallmark movies and TV shows.

My hometown of Victoria, British Columbia, is known for many things — quaint architecture, temperate climate, stunning gardens, and being the backdrop for hundreds of Hallmark holiday movies.

When I moved back after years of "big city life" in Toronto, it felt like I was literally living out the plot of a Hallmark movie.

Although Victoria is charming and picturesque, there's so much more to the city than what's captured on the small screen.

Fernwood Square is a popular hangout spot.

A lot of scenes with holiday markets are filmed in Fernwood Square. Simone Paget

The charming Fernwood Inn is a popular neighborhood pub.

The Fernwood Inn is a local staple in Victoria. Simone Paget

Oak Bay Village is the perfect place to live out your Hallmark fantasies.

There are lots of cute shops in Oak Bay Village. Simone Paget

The Oak Bay Beach Hotel combines Hallmark-worthy coziness with jaw-dropping views.

The Oak Bay Beach Hotel has lovely mineral pools. Simone Paget

Our annual Christmas-tree festival is not to be missed.

The Festival of Trees is an annual tradition in Victoria. Simone Paget

You can make gourmet s’mores at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

The Empress also hosts a wonderful afternoon tea. Simone Paget

My town's light displays are delightfully over the top.

Butchart Gardens goes all out with its holiday lights.Simone Paget

We love whimsical small businesses and a good pun.

Shirley Delicious is a lovely cafe in Victoria. Simone Paget

There's stunning Victorian architecture everywhere.

The town is full of lovely porches and detailed roofs. Simone Paget

You can also visit two castles in one day.

Hatley Castle is a popular filming location.Simone Paget

Victoria is home to North America’s second-oldest Chinatown.

Victoria's Chinatown has been around since the mid-1800s. Simone Paget

It's also home to North America’s narrowest commercial street, Fan Tan Alley.

Fan Tan Alley is a popular destination in Victoria's Chinatown. Simone Paget

There’s a bustling food scene with diverse dining options.

I'm a fan of the award-winning cocktail bars in Victoria. Simone Paget

Tucked-away cafes are our specialty.

Hide + Seek Coffee is one of my favorite shops. Simone Paget

We’re known for our incredible beaches and mountain views.

The landscape in Victoria has something for everyone. Simone Paget

You may run into a film crew or two.

Filming notices are often hung up around popular spots. Simone Paget

Believe it or not, there are palm trees in Victoria.

Victoria is one of the warmest areas in Canada. Simone Paget

Peacocks roam freely about the town.

It's not uncommon to see a peacock or two. Simone Paget

There’s something for everyone.

I love that Victoria is somewhere in between a city and a small town. Simone Paget

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